Change to genetic design 'linked to Alzheimer's'

A team of physical chemists have linked a possible cause of Alzheimer's disease to a subtle genetic mutation.

Using computer simulations, researchers at the University of North Carolina were able to demonstrate how a "seemingly inconsequential mutation" affects chemical balance, creating a build-up of toxins.

The researchers investigated the effects caused by the Dutch Mutation, a small mutation that has been associated with a hereditary form of Alzheimer’s disease.

According to the report, a biochemical reaction resulting from the minor change can tip the balance of chemical processes causing the build-up of protein clumps that kills brain cells and leads to early deterioration of mental capacity.

Commenting on the findings, lead author of the study Andrij Baumketner explained: "Maybe evolution never has had a chance to optimize us against this. Humans now live to be much older, but evolution never has had a chance before to detect and avoid these problems through natural selection. When the lifespan was 35 years, you didn't have a large problem with Alzheimer's."